Indian High Commissioner, Upender Singh Rawat, led celebrations at the Source of the Nile in Jinja, Uganda, to mark the 154th birthday of Mahatma Gandhi and the International Day of Non-Violence. Local residents and members of the Indian Association joined the event to pay tribute to the iconic leader.
In a ceremony that began with the garlanding of the Mahatma Gandhi statue, participants collectively planted fruit trees around the statue to emphasize their commitment to environmental conservation. Dignitaries present included Piyush Kotecha, Chairperson of the Indian Association in Jinja, and representatives from various organizations.
This annual commemoration holds special significance as it takes place at the location where Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were immersed, and a statue in his honor was erected. High Commissioner Upender Singh Rawat expressed his desire for a more peaceful world and stronger India-Uganda relations during the event.
Rawat extended his gratitude to the organizers, Indian Association Jinja and Bank of Baroda Jinja branch, for their dedication to maintaining Gandhi’s statue. He also visited the Siri Gurdwara Ramgarhia Temple and participated in prayers.
In a heartwarming gesture, Rawat, along with his wife, Piyush Kotecha, and other Indian community members, visited the Child Restoration Outreach Jinja branch offices, where they interacted with 200 orphans and street children and volunteered to serve them lunch. Rawat emphasized the importance of education to the children.
Piyush Kotecha highlighted the Indian Association Jinja’s commitment to humanitarian services in Jinja, including support for Balitwegomba Spire Rd Primary School of the Blind.
Noah Namwano, the Programs Manager of Child Restoration Outreach Jinja branch, expressed gratitude for India’s High Commissioner and the Indian Association’s contributions to street children and orphans.
Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday, celebrated annually on October 2nd, is also recognized as the International Day of Non-Violence by the United Nations. Gandhi’s legacy of non-violence played a pivotal role in India gaining independence in 1947. His ashes now rest at the Source of the Nile River, symbolizing peace and resilience.
